Norway’s Casper Ruud arrived at the Australian Open with more than just tennis on his mind. While the world’s attention is focused on his performances in Melbourne, the 12th seed has been open about the fact that his priorities may shift instantly if life delivers its biggest moment off the court. With his wife Maria heavily pregnant and expecting their first child, Ruud admits that his time at the tournament could be cut short at any moment.
Ruud began his campaign in confident fashion, defeating Italy’s Mattia Bellucci 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in the first round on Monday. The victory was composed and professional, showing why he remains one of the most consistent performers on the ATP Tour. Yet, despite the comfortable scoreline, Ruud made it clear afterwards that tennis currently shares space with far more personal concerns.
Speaking after the match, the Norwegian star explained that his decision to travel to Australia was only possible because of his wife’s support. Maria, who is close to giving birth to their daughter, remained at home to rest and prepare while Ruud competed on the other side of the world.
“I have to thank Maria for letting me go in the first place,” Ruud said. “I know she’s at home resting, getting ready.” His words reflected both gratitude and awareness that his situation is far from typical for a Grand Slam contender.
Ruud revealed that he has taken precautions to ensure he can respond immediately should the moment arrive. Outside of his match commitments, his phone is always on loud, ready to deliver news that would instantly change his plans. “Except for when I’m playing a match, the ringer is on all hours of the day just in case,” he explained.
The 25-year-old acknowledged that tennis, while central to his career, is no longer his sole focus. “There’s more to life than just tennis,” Ruud said, adding that he would remain in Melbourne only “as long as I can and as long as Maria lets me.”
Family has always played a central role in Ruud’s journey through professional tennis. He has travelled with relatives for much of his career, and his father, Christian Ruud, a former professional player himself, continues to serve as his coach. That close-knit family dynamic has shaped Ruud’s calm demeanor and grounded outlook, traits that have helped him reach multiple Grand Slam finals in recent years.
Now, however, Ruud is preparing for a new chapter. In an interview with the ATP Tour website, he reflected on how his life is about to change in ways far more significant than rankings or results. “I know for a fact that if everything goes well, the next time I’ll leave my house I will have another person at home,” he said.
He spoke warmly about the anticipation of meeting his daughter for the first time. “She’ll be very little and small, but she’ll be there,” Ruud said, capturing the quiet excitement of impending fatherhood. Looking further ahead, he shared his hope that his growing family will eventually join him on tour. “I hope to bring her and my wife Maria to the tournaments together and be a happy family travelling around.”
That sense of responsibility has already altered how Ruud views his career. “I’m not just doing this for myself any more,” he said. “I have someone extra to play for.” The comment highlights a shift in motivation, suggesting that future matches will carry an added emotional weight.
On the court, Ruud’s focus remains sharp. His win over Bellucci showed control from the baseline and a strong serve, traits that have defined his success on hard courts. Next, he faces Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round on Wednesday, a matchup that will test both his physical readiness and his ability to compartmentalize the emotions surrounding his family situation.
Whether Ruud’s Australian Open journey continues deep into the second week or ends abruptly due to a flight home, his comments have resonated with fans. They offer a reminder that behind the elite athletes competing under bright lights are individuals navigating the same life milestones as everyone else.
For Ruud, Melbourne is no longer just about chasing a Grand Slam title. It is about balancing ambition with responsibility, and professional goals with personal happiness. As he continues to compete, the tennis world watches not only his forehand and footwork, but also the quiet dignity with which he embraces the most important role he is about to take on.
